Solid-State Power Control via Adaptive Dither Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solid-state relay solutions for high-current applications are limited by their non-adjustability, high cost, and complexity, with existing technologies relying on dedicated power control integrated circuits and mechanical components, which are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A single-conductor, adaptive dither modulation (ADM) system that eliminates the need for dedicated modulation ICs and associated circuitry, providing noise-immune, non-mid-state control of power semiconductor devices for adjustable current paths, enabling both fixed and variable control modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If solid-state relays with very high current ratings are used, then high-current control capability is achieved, but cost increases significantly due to power semiconductor and heat sinking requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (control signal processing, power switching, and modulation) into a single integrated power control device, eliminating the need for separate dedicated modulation ICs and associated circuitry. This integration reduces component count, board space, and overall system cost while maintaining high-current control capability through efficient use of power semiconductors
2Ease of operation
If dedicated power control integrated circuits are used, then precise power control is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power control device is designed to perform multiple functions including voltage control, current control, pulse-width modulation, and adaptive dither modulation within a single integrated circuit. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated modulation ICs and associated circuitry, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precise power control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary dedicated modulation ICs and associated circuitry from the system, retaining only the essential power control functionality integrated into the main power control device. This simplification reduces device complexity and size while preserving precise control capabilities
3Power
If electromechanical relays are used, then high-current switching is achieved, but mechanical wear and reliability issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electromechanical relay contacts with solid-state power semiconductor switches that perform high-current switching without mechanical moving parts. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear, contact erosion, and reliability issues associated with mechanical systems while maintaining the ability to switch high currents efficiently
4Ease of operation
If conventional PWM or PFM control methods are used, then power control functionality is achieved, but additional circuitry and cost are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges conventional PWM and PFM control methods along with adaptive dither modulation capabilities into a single integrated power control device. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate dedicated modulation ICs and associated circuitry, reducing overall circuit complexity while maintaining full power control functionality
Data Source
AI summary
With the disclosed device, a control method is set forth to control the flow of power between an electrical source and an electrical load.